MTD Self-Propelled Mower 979 - Manual (Page 8)

8
NOTE: Make certain the drive cable is routed around
the outside and above the lower handle so it does not
interfere with attaching the grass bag.
• The rope guide, which is connected to the support
rod, is located on the right side of lower handle.
See Figure 5.
• With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide.
Figure 5
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this operator’s manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations
in Figure 6 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Save this manual for future reference.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can damage
your eyes severely. Always wear safety
glasses while operating the mower, or
while performing any adjustments or
repairs on it.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right lower handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start
the unit. See Figure 6.
Blade Control Handle
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release blade
control handle to stop engine and blade. See Figure 6.
WARNING: This blade control mechanism
is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
its operations.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
The cutting height adjustment lever is located above
the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, refer to
the Adjustment Section in this manual. See Figure 6.
Drive Clutch Control
The drive clutch control is located on the upper handle.
Squeeze the drive control to engage the drive system.
Release the clutch control to disengage the drive
system. Release the clutch control to slow down when
approaching an obstacle, making a turn, or stopping.
See Figure 6.
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the drive clutch control
housing on the upper handle. This lever is used to
select the forward speed of the mower. When changing
speed selection, release the drive clutch control. See
Figure 6.
NOTE: Move the shift lever only when the engine is
running. Changing the shift lever setting with the
engine off can cause damage to the mower.
Engine Controls
See the separate engine manual for the location and
function of the controls on the engine.
Stopping Engine
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to the
post on the engine.
Figure 6
Starter
Rope
Rope
Guide
Lower
Handle
Support
Rod
Blade Control
Handle
Recoil
Starter
Cutting Height
Adjustment Lever
Discharge
Chute
Mulching
Plug
Drive Clutch
Control
Shift Lever